State agency seeks advice on local pot bans

OLYMPIA — Washington state attorneys are exploring whether local governments are allowed to ban businesses who will participate in a legal marijuana market.

The office of Attorney General Bob Ferguson issued a noticed Tuesday seeking input on the question raised by the agency tasked with establishing the system. The Liquor Control Board is asking whether state law prevents local governments from banning a marijuana producer, processor or retailer from locating in the area.

Some local governments such as Pierce County have been exploring whether to ban recreational marijuana businesses.

Voters approved an initiative last year to legalize marijuana. The Liquor Control Board has been developing regulations for a system for businesses to grow, process and sell the product.